Donald R. Korb, OD, Joins New England College of Optometry Faculty

BOSTON—New England College of Optometry (NECO) has announced that Donald R. Korb, OD, an alumnus, had joined the faculty as an adjunct professor. Korb is recognized as an international authority on dry eye, having named and described meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), the leading cause of dry eye, and co-invented two of the leading dry eye products currently marketed. Korb, a Boston-area researcher, lecturer, inventor and practicing optometrist, has more than 60 patents and 110 publications in referred scientific journals.

In addition to this, he has discovered and named three ocular conditions which have proven fundamental. He has received over 40 major honors, was elected to two halls of fame and awarded three honorary degrees.

Korb’s work has included creating examination methods and products to enhance patient care, achieved by co-founding five research companies. He brings to NECO his extensive background of developing innovative treatments and products, collaborating with optometric leaders throughout the world, and conducting groundbreaking research.

“Dr. Korb’s participation at NECO is a phenomenal chance for our students to have the opportunity to learn from a successful doctor and optometric leader who has pushed the bounds of what optometry can accomplish to help people change the way they see the world,” said NECO president Howard Purcell. “Dr. Korb embodies the sense of leadership, innovation, service, and lifelong learning that we strive for at NECO.”

Korb’s career began with focusing on improving contact lenses. He invented the contact lens design which remains the foundation of the modern contact lens. This work began a lifelong passion for creating innovations in eyecare that he continues today. His contributions have impacted the care of over 50 million contact lens patients and tens of millions of dry eye patients.

"The impact of science and technology guarantees an exciting future for eyecare," said Korb. "I look forward to working with students to help them see how their passion and drive can provide an exciting career and also move the profession and eyecare forward."